D3044: Florida first detector: Adapting education and outreach to a virtual setting

The state of Florida is at a high risk for invasive species introductions, with 2-3 arthropod species introduced every month. The goal of the Florida First Detector program is to build a network of volunteers actively scouting for invasive species and submitting samples by providing targeted outreach and education for growers, Master Gardeners, community gardens, the general public and others interested in plant health. One method utilized in accomplishing this goal was in-person, hands-on workshops that provided participants an opportunity to scout with an expert and view insects and plant diseases under the microscope. In 2020 and 2021 the Florida First Detector program continued to educate through workshops, however the format shifted to a virtual platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 12 virtual workshops were held from July 2020 to June 2021. The workshops were between 2-3 hours in length and had an average of 32 participants. Workshops included 20-minute talks followed by small group activities that promoted interaction with participants and require learners to problem solve by applying the knowledge gained from the lecture in a new context. These activities covered a wide range of topics from basic insect anatomy, detection and identification and served as supplemental learning activities following traditional lectures. Surveys were conducted at the conclusion of each workshop to evaluate the virtual workshop efficacy and participant feedback.